Mount Edith Cavell

Mount Edith Cavell is a prominent peak in Jasper National Park, known for its steep north face, Angel Glacier and the ice-flecked water of Cavell Pond. From the parking area, the Path of the Glacier leads across rocky ground to views of the glacier and pond; the longer Cavell Meadows route climbs to several viewpoints and alpine flowers. The access road is narrow and winding, and parking is limited. Come for a short glacier walk or allow time for the more demanding meadows hike.

The glacier and Cavell Pond

Mount Edith Cavell’s north face rises above Cavell Pond, where meltwater from the glacier gathers below the mountain. Angel Glacier hangs on the slope above, and pieces of ice can sometimes be seen floating in the pond. The combination of dark rock, glacier ice and blue-green water is visible from the trails near the parking area.

The mountain is named for Edith Cavell, a British nurse who helped Allied soldiers during the First World War and was executed for helping prisoners escape from German-occupied Belgium. The peak reaches 3,363 metres and is among Jasper National Park’s most prominent mountains.

Choosing a trail

The Path of the Glacier is the shorter option. The 1.6-kilometre return walk crosses rocky terrain and reaches a viewpoint above the glacier pond. Part of the route is paved, but the ground becomes uneven, so sturdy footwear is useful. Allow about an hour for this walk.

For a longer outing, the Cavell Meadows trail climbs steeply to a series of viewpoints. The loop is about 8.4 kilometres and typically takes 2.5 to 4.5 hours. Along the way, the views open across the glacier and pond, the surrounding peaks and flower-covered alpine meadows. The uphill sections and elevation make this a more demanding choice than the shorter path.